Can we say buyer beware! Can we meditate, go to temples and believe the sangha is always benign and altruistic? Do we often lead with our hearts and the rational mind is put to bed? "When the topic of money comes up vis a vis Buddhist centers, there are the invariable, fact-based references to heat, light, rent, mortgage, repairs, upkeep, food ... and whatever all else. The recollection that Buddhist monks used to be described as individuals "with one robe and one bowl" may be wonderfully delicious, but it generally overlooks the fact that not only did those monks eat out of the bowl, they also begged with it.

With so many charlatans on the loose -- $50,000 get-enlightened scams, teachers skimming, etc. -- it is hard not to be suspicious for very good reason"

Monks and nuns are human beings, and for the most part, have not yet attained to the "ideal sangha" which is the object of refuge. Don't be too disappointed when human difficulties arise, and even scandals, but respond to them appropriately. For example, if there is not enough money, or someone has been skimming, then to the extent that your role allows this, help them do what has to be done, as your role permits. Sometimes nothing can be done, and the whole place falls apart. Eventually this happens to everything, so don't be too surprised or disappointed.

But accounting for funds received and disbursed is a basic requirement. If those with responsibility over the money have neglected to do this, they are likely commiting not only a religious offense, but a secular crime. This should be impressed on all involved. Go ask a nearby church or synagogue what structures they have put in place to handle money--typically they will be quite wise to all the ins and outs. Enlist the involvement of lawyers and/or accountants in your dharma center, for example, by putting them on the board of trustees.

greentara wrote:Can we say buyer beware! Can we meditate, go to temples and believe the sangha is always benign and altruistic? Do we often lead with our hearts and the rational mind is put to bed? "When the topic of money comes up vis a vis Buddhist centers, there are the invariable, fact-based references to heat, light, rent, mortgage, repairs, upkeep, food ... and whatever all else. The recollection that Buddhist monks used to be described as individuals "with one robe and one bowl" may be wonderfully delicious, but it generally overlooks the fact that not only did those monks eat out of the bowl, they also begged with it.

With so many charlatans on the loose -- $50,000 get-enlightened scams, teachers skimming, etc. -- it is hard not to be suspicious for very good reason"

Genkaku

I am confused...not unusual.. Are you greentara also known as Genkaku who has his own blog ?

" My heart's in the Highlands my heart is not here.My heart's in the Highlandschasing the deer."